Armadale Tennis Club Code of Conduct and Club Rules

Armadale Tennis Club (ATC) is a vibrant, not-for-profit community tennis organization proudly based in Markham, Ontario. Operated by dedicated volunteers, the Club strives to provide welcoming, high-quality tennis experiences for players of all ages and abilities.

The Club operates under a seasonal permit issued by the City of Markham. Membership fees directly support the upkeep and improvement of our courts, facilities, nets, windscreens, lighting, and the surrounding grounds. Fees also cover administrative costs and staffing for our Club Manager and Court Attendants.

Our mission is simple: to promote the enjoyment, inclusivity, and lifelong value of tennis in a respectful and well-maintained environment.

The Armadale Tennis Club Code of Conduct ensures a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members, guests, staff, contractors, and visitors.

Every person associated with ATC has the right to participate free from discrimination, harassment, abuse, or violence.

This Code outlines:

• Standards of conduct expected at all times.
• Steps for reporting misconduct or unsafe behavior.
• The Club’s process for addressing and resolving incidents.

The Code aligns with the values and mission of Armadale Tennis Club, as well as the Ontario Tennis Association (OTA) Code of Conduct and OTA Anti-Harassment Policy.

For clarity, these terms are defined as follows:

• Abuse: Verbal, emotional, or physical mistreatment of another person.
• Discrimination: Any unfair treatment based on characteristics protected under Ontario’s Human Rights Code—such as race, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or religion.
• Harassment: Unwelcome comments or conduct known, or that ought reasonably to be known, to be offensive.
• Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, remarks, or conduct, or any behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating environment.
• Violence: The exercise, attempt, or threat of physical force that causes (or could cause) injury.
• Emergency: Any situation posing an immediate risk to health, safety, property, or the environment that requires urgent action.

By joining or renewing membership at ATC, all members agree to:

• Follow the Club’s By-Laws, Policies, Rules, and this Code of Conduct at all times.
• Be accountable for the behavior of their guests.
• Represent the Club with integrity, whether on-site or at external events.

Members and guests must:

• Play with fairness, respect, and good sportsmanship.
• Respect all members, staff, and visitors—both on and off the court.
• Keep Club facilities clean and well-maintained.
• Follow the directions of Club attendants or staff, particularly in matters of safety or court closures.
• Respect privacy and avoid sharing member contact details for marketing or solicitation.
• Comply with municipal, provincial, and federal laws.
• Refer to OTA’s official Ontario Tennis Association (OTA) Code of Conduct and OTA Anti-Harassment Policy.

Armadale Tennis Club is member-driven and volunteer-managed. Member interaction expectations:

• All interactions with staff, board members, and volunteers must reflect respect and civility.
• Members must follow the guidance of the Club Manager and Court Attendants regarding facility use and safety.
• Staff have the authority to suspend play or request a player leave if behavior is unsafe or disrespectful.
• Concerns regarding staff or club operations should be directed—politely and in writing—to the ATC Board of Directors.

If misconduct or a rule violation occurs:

• Report the incident to a Board Member or the Club Manager as soon as possible.
• Written reports should include the names of those involved, date, time, witnesses, and a description of the incident.
• All reports are confidential and will be reviewed by the Executive Committee.

*For safety concerns or urgent emergency situations, please contact local emergency services (911) first, then notify the Club.

1. Review: The Member Relations Committee will investigate reported incidents fairly and promptly.
2. Member Response: Members will receive written notice and may submit a response within seven (7) days.
3. Action: Depending on the outcome, disciplinary measures may include warnings, suspension of booking privileges, or termination of membership.
4. Immediate Suspension: In cases involving threats, violence, or safety risks, the Club may immediately suspend privileges for up to 10 days pending review.

Courteous and safe play is central to the spirit of Armadale Tennis Club. Please observe the following:

• Show respect—no profanity, racquet throwing, or aggressive conduct.
• Keep phones silent on court; personal music may only be played during designated events.
• Enter courts through the closest gate and avoid disturbing nearby games.
• Wait for a rally to end before retrieving balls.
• Only use three balls per court unless taking a lesson with an ATC-approved instructor.
• Remove all trash, towels, and equipment after play.
• Do not play on wet courts; follow staff direction on safety closures.
• No strollers, pets, or non-tennis equipment are permitted on the courts.
• The last players of the evening must turn off the court lights.

ATC uses CourtReserve to manage memberships and court bookings.

• Members may book courts up to 48 hours in advance for a maximum of two hours per day.
• Bookings must list all players by name.
• Booked courts are held for 15 minutes—after which the booking is forfeited. Repeated no-shows may result in suspension.
• The gate code is confidential and must not be shared; it changes periodically for security.

• Members may invite guests for a modest guest fee set annually by the Board.
• Guest details must be entered in CourtReserve prior to play.
• Members must accompany guests on court.
• Non-members may play only if space permits, after checking in and paying the designated fee.
• Guests and non-members must abide by this Code of Conduct and all Club Rules.
• Members are accountable for the actions of their guests; violations may lead to loss of privileges.

Players must wear proper tennis clothing and non-marking athletic shoes. Other footwear is not permitted to protect the court surface.

As a proud member of the Armadale Tennis Club community, you help create an environment where tennis is not just a sport—but a shared expression of respect, camaraderie, and fun.

Let’s all work together to keep ATC welcoming, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.